Strong Message Here Strong Recommend: Shakespeare's Richard II
Jul 24, 2025
Armando Iannucci and Helen Lewis dive into the labyrinth of political language through the lens of Shakespeare's 'Richard II.' They explore the protagonist's internal struggles with identity and madness, revealing the emotional depth behind the text. The conversation highlights themes of despair and power while drawing intriguing parallels to modern politics. With a mix of humor and insightful analysis, they uncover Shakespeare's political courage and its relevance today, making for a compelling discussion.
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Reading Shakespeare History Plays
- Armando Iannucci shares his journey reading Shakespeare history plays, including Richard II, to fill gaps in his knowledge.
- Helen Lewis recounts reading all the history plays during the pandemic with friends as a unique and productive pastime.
Mental Collapse of Richard II
- Richard II's mental collapse centers on the loss of his divine right identity when questioned and reduced.
- The play explores what remains of a person's identity when their unquestioned role is stripped away.
From Petulant King to Nobility
- Richard II evolves from a petulant boy king losing status to achieving spiritual nobility through loss.
- The play shows a journey from immature entitlement to profound personal growth and dignity in downfall.
